Let’s talk nursing bras. If you’re well into your breastfeeding journey, you’ve probably already discovered that not all nursing bras are created equal. Likewise, if you’re a brand new mum (congrats!) chances are you’re overwhelmed by the number of options available and don’t know where to start!
Here at Cake Maternity, we’ve been designing nursing bras for over 15 years, so it’s safe to say we know what separates the bad, from the good, from the great. Today we’re going to break this down so you know what to look for, but first we’ll explain why investing in a high quality nursing bra is the best choice for your health, as well as the planet’s.
The Health Benefits of a Quality Nursing Bra
During pregnancy your breasts undergo dramatic changes. Not only do they increase in size and density, resulting in sensitive skin as it stretches, but your nipples also change colour and shape to prepare for breastfeeding. Your body also pumps more blood around your body during pregnancy, which can lead to an increase in body temperature. Once you begin breastfeeding, the changes continue, from rapid size fluctuations to leaking.
High quality nursing bras are designed with these changes in mind. Many are designed to fit multiple cup sizes in one, which means they’ll grow as you grow, and also support you when your cup size is smaller after a feed. Super soft, breathable materials are used to ensure you’re cool and there’s nothing rubbing on your sensitive skin and nipples.
Depending on your stage of pregnancy or breastfeeding (more on this later), there’s also flexi-wire nursing bras which are designed to provide maximum support without any restriction.
There’s a common misconception that wired bras will increase your risk of mastitis. In reality, any ill-fitting bra is going to make you more susceptible due to the increased pressure on the breast tissue. A properly fitted flexi-wire bra is going to be much healthier for you than a poorly made wire-free bra that doesn’t support your higher density breasts, which can lead to ligament damage.
Choosing the Right Nursing Bra
The most important factor to consider when choosing the right nursing bra for you is your stage of pregnancy or breastfeeding. During the first trimester and the first 6-8 weeks postpartum, your breasts will be undergoing the most amount of change in terms of cup size. This is when we strongly recommend sticking to multi-cup fitting styles to ensure you’re supported throughout. Outside of these times you can safely wear any kind of nursing bra, as long as it’s well made and fits you correctly.
Some other features to look out for that indicate a bra is well made and the right choice for your health are as follows:
| Feature | Benefit |
| Double Layered | More durable to ensure it lasts longer. |
| Moulded Cups | Accommodates your breasts rather than compressing them. |
| Higher Than 10% Elastane | Elastane is the yarn that allows the rest of the garment to stretch and recover. If it’s lower than 10%, it’s more likely the bra will stretch out after fewer wears, shortening its lifespan. |
| Multiple Hooks and Eyes | Look for at least 6 to allow for growth around your ribcage during pregnancy, and to support you as you contract postpartum. |
| Wide Straps and Elastics | The stronger and wider these are, the more supportive and comfortable. Thin and stretchy straps will dig in. |
| Folded Edge Sling | A folded edge will stretch and grow with you and not cause any digging in. Some bras have strapping to hold the nursing clip in place, and this can cause red marks and unwanted pressure across the fullest part of your bust. |
| Adjustable Straps | With constant wear, your straps can elongate, so choose a bra that has adjustments so you can make sure they’re at their ideal length to keep you supported all day and night. |
Environmental Impact of Nursing Bras
The fashion industry generates a massive amount of waste, with billions of garments ending up in landfills. This environmental impact highlights the importance of investing in high-quality, durable clothing, especially essentials like nursing bras.
Multi-cup fitting bras offer a sustainable solution by accommodating changing breast sizes throughout the breastfeeding journey, minimising the need for frequent replacements. Furthermore, choosing well-made bras supports ethical labour practices and minimises the environmental impact of production.
By prioritising quality and sustainability, you can reduce your environmental footprint, support ethical manufacturing, and enjoy a comfortable and supportive breastfeeding experience.
A quality nursing bra is so much more than another item of underwear. It can mean the difference between a good day or a bad day. We often forget to prioritise our own comfort and health once bub comes along, but a healthy mum means a healthy bub. Not only that, but making informed nursing bra choices can also reduce your environmental impact, and the more we do this, the better we’ll leave the planet for future generations.
Katie is the proud mum of two beautiful girls and has been responsible for all the designs, style and fit at Cake Maternity for over a decade now.
Katie is a nursing bra specialist and a fit, pattern and grading technician. She is passionate about breastfeeding and the many benefits it offers to both mum, baby and the environment.
She is determined to make the breastfeeding journey a comfortable, supportive and beautiful one for all mums, understanding that it doesn’t always come easy to everyone. That’s why she has made it her mission to empower women as they mindfully navigate the world of motherhood and help make breastfeeding easier, through experience-driven innovation.
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